Level 5: When to seek a second opinion?
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Introduction
We’ve curated some tips that will help you recognize when it’s advisable to get a second opinion.
Not all health practitioners are knowledgeable in the symptoms and indicators of Endometriosis. So, it’s important to know when to get a second or third opinion.
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Pain should not be dismissed
When a doctor dismisses your pain as being in your head or tries to tell you that menstrual pain is common, it may be time to get a second opinion.
While some menstrual cramping is normal, crippling pain that keeps you home from school, work, or other activities is not normal.
Painful bowel movements are not normal. Pain that cannot be quickly relieved with over the counter pain medications is not normal. Pain during your menses that makes it difficult for you to breathe is not normal.
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You have a choice
If an OBGYN suggests a contraceptive to help with pelvic and/or menstrual pain, but you would rather not take a contraceptive, you don’t have to.
For some people, this works well. If a doctor says they cannot help you if you don’t take the medications they recommend, it is time to seek a second opinion.
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A second opinion is always an option
If an OBGYN has suspected that you may have Endometriosis but wants you to try drugs to suppress your ovaries before surgery, you are entitled to say no and seek a second opinion.
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Hormone suppression and birth control are not mandatory
If an OBGYN does surgery but says that you need to be on hormone suppression afterward to ‘keep microscopic or deep infiltrating endometriosis under control,’ it is important to understand that this is a standard approach for many cases.
While hormonal treatment is commonly prescribed to manage any remaining or undetected tissue, it’s also a typical practice for up to 60-70% of adenomyosis patients who are seeking to preserve their uterus and maintain fertility.
Some experts may prescribe birth control or other hormonal therapies after surgery to give the patient a break from the painful periods that can often follow surgery.
However, for endometriosis patients, if hormonal treatment doesn’t align with your long-term goals, it is always good to explore other options, including seeking additional expert opinions.
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Pain after surgery is not normal
If you have surgery with an ‘Endometriosis specialist,’ but continue to have pain that hasn’t resolved after physical therapy and investigating other potential sources of pain, then it is time for a second opinion.